People born in April are either Aries or Taurus

For those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere, April is a happy month of beginnings: the start of springtime and the restarting of the zodiac cycle, which begins with Aries. For those with an April birthday, longer days and the renewal of seasons have imbued April babies with bubbly personalities and positive outlooks. Here are some other fun facts (like what’s April’s birthstone) and traits of people born in April, the fourth of the year.

They’re born in the middle of the pack

April babies are usually neither the youngest nor the oldest students in their class, neatly fitting in the middle of the school calendar. A study from the University of Exeter found that first-time moms were more likely to attempt to plan their delivery dates for the spring. 

Aries are natural-born leaders

If you know someone born under the sign of Aries, (March 21 – April 19) you’ll know that thanks to their ambitious and tenacious natures, people born in April tend to be leaders. They can be innately stubborn and bossy—a potent combination (when used right) that can lead to people born in April to achieving their goals.

April’s birthstone is one the rarest of all—the diamond

When worn, the diamond is thought to increase the wearer’s inner strength. One of the hardest materials on the planet, April’s birthstone is also the symbol of eternal love and is one of the most popular gems to give as a gift. In the middle ages, the diamond was thought to have healing powers.

Your BFF is probably born in April

Passionate and caring, those born in under the sign of Taurus (April 20 – May 20) are steadfast, making loyal and generous friends. But be forewarned: April babies can be chatterboxes who love attention and can sometimes want to hog the spotlight.

People born in April can be emotional

Aries babies are known to be passionate, fiery, and impatient, which means they tend to wear their emotions on their sleeves. The good news is, this makes them wonderful friends because they bring all that passion to every relationship in life.

April babies are fearless risk-takers

Aries is the most fearless sign of them all. This means there’s a good chance your baby born in April will be enthusiastic about everything they do and be unafraid of taking risks. That’s great news if you’re a parent who doesn’t like to stay still because April babies are feisty and possess seemingly boundless energy.

People born in April are hard workers and love routine

Those who are born under the sign of Taurus tend to be hard workers—they’re not afraid to roll up their sleeves and get the job done, already. They’re also a huge fan of consistency, so don’t be surprised if your April baby thrives on a routine (aka, don’t EVER skip the nap).

They share their birthday month with these celebrities born in April

Plenty of famous people have April birthdays, including Michael Fassbender, Pedro Pascal, Robert Downey Jr., Natasha Lyonne, Pharrell Williams, Elle Fanning, Samira Wiley, Chance the Rapper, Jennifer Garner, and Tim Curry. Notable (fictional) characters born in April include animated smart-aleck Bart Simpson (born April 1, 1979) and heavyweight boxer Rocky Balboa (born April 6, 1946).

Related: The Parent/Child Astrology Compatibility Chart

Trying to figure out a way to call Santa? Here’s everything you need to know

Even if you can’t have your one-on-one with Santa at the mall, you can still get your time with him. There are lots of fun options, and we’ve rounded up our favorite ways to get Santa’s phone number (many of them are free!). Here’s where you’ll learn how to get in touch with Father Christmas at the touch of your smartphone, web browser, or even your home assistant.

Santa Hotline

how to call Santa's phone number
Kraken Images via Unsplash

It couldn’t get easier to call Santa's phone number: all you need is a phone to dial up Santa’s Hotline. This free, international number connects kids directly to a voicemail box where they can leave messages at the North Pole. Available throughout the United States (as well as 13 countries including France, Sweden, and Australia), it’s a simple concept that will add that little extra pinch of magic dust to your holiday. Simply dial +1-319-527-2680 or +1-712-770-4404 and get talking!

Related: 8 Ways to Keep Track of Santa This Christmas (We’ll Show You How!)

Call Santa with Alexa

Amazon

If you have an Echo Dot Kids or FreeTime on Alexa, all you have to say is “Alexa, call Santa.” You'll hear from elves, Jack Frost, and even Santa himself (Each time it may be different, and you'll often get holiday jokes!). To make sure you're set up for FreeTime, in your Alexa app, select the Devices icon, then select the compatible Alexa device for which you would like to enable Amazon FreeTime on Alexa. Then tap FreeTime, and follow the on-screen prompts to complete your setup.

Message from Santa! App

get a message from santa's phone number
Apple App Store

The Message from Santa app has tons of features! Parents can help their kids start a video message from Santa, receive a phone call, call Santa's voicemail, and even text the jolly old elf himself. This is a free app (with in-app purchases for additional features) and is available for iOS and Android devices.

Google Home Call Santa

Paul Agrusti via YouTube

Use your Google Assistant and Google Home device to call Santa! All you have to say is "Hey Google, call Santa" and you'll get to hear about how Santa Claus is busy rehearsing for a musical concert—but he only knows one song and needs your help! Kids can also make a call on a Smart Display to see all the fun album covers from the North Pole bands.

Christmas Dialer

how to get santa's phone number
iStock

Has little Johnny and Susie been good this year? Now you can let Santa do the asking! When you use Christmas Dialer, you can choose for either Santa or one of his elves to place a call to your child. Select one of four different messages, including, "be good," "on my list," "something special," or "sweet dreams." Parents can use the pre-populated messages or type their own and then call Santa right away. 

Portable North Pole

santa phone number
Portable North Pole

The Portable North Pole's website and mobile app let creative parents like yourself create customized Santa greetings on video to awe and excite your wee ones. With a few screen taps, answer questions about your child (or children—Santa can address your kids individually or as a group!) and upload some favorite pictures to create a charming message from St. Nick that arrives by email.

Make sure to capture all the memories—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

 

 

 

 

 

Vintage is the name of the game at these old-school Atlanta bowling alleys

Don’t get us wrong, winter in Atlanta is tons of fun. Who doesn’t love snow tubing and sledding when the snow flies. Or heading out for a day of skiing? There’s lots of love about the cooler months. But sometimes it doesn’t hurt to duck inside when the temperatures are still chilly. So we found all the indoor bowling fun you need to get out and have family fun together. There’s nothing quite like watching your child bowl their first strike at a bowling alley near Atlanta. So, pack up your family and head to these Atlanta bowling alleys to turn back the clock on entertainment. Each spot is family-friendly and goes beyond bowling with everything from laser tag to epic arcade games. Consider this the perfect rainy day line-up of family-friendly bowling alleys in the city.

1. Midtown Bowl

An Atlanta tradition since 1960, get your game on with 32 lanes at this classic Atlanta bowling alley. Stepping inside, you’re welcomed by the charm of a 1970’s colorful, retro-chic bowling alley with lane tables that sit up to six and a jukebox. Jukebox lessons with your kids are always fun since they’ve probably never tried one. 

Beyond Bowling: This vintage bowling alley focuses on the main event, but the food is an excellent distraction. For kids, they’ve got everything from fish sticks to corn dogs, and big kids will love the signature burgers. Check out the vegan and vegetarian menus, too. 

Insider Tip: Midtown Bowl is a cash-free business. 

1936 Piedmont Cir. N.E.
Atlanta
Onlinemidtownbowl.com

2. Main Event Atlanta

Get ready for an immersive bowling experience with the latest tech for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you need a kid-friendly lane with bumpers or a professional lane to show your stuff, Main Event Atlanta offers that and more. In addition, bowling birthday packages start at just $15.99 per person and give you your party space and an enthusiastic host to guide you through the best day of the year. 

Beyond Bowling: When everyone is ready for more, play adrenaline-pumping Virtual Reality or sign up for a multi-level area Laser Tag game. Then, grab your crew for a friendly game of pool, air hockey or one of the immersive Story Rooms. 

3101 Cobb Parkway S.E., Suite 104
Atlanta
Onlinemainevent.com

3. The Painted Duck

Be sure to visit this Atlanta bowling alley that offers upscale bowling before 5 p.m. when kids are allowed. It is nothing short of amazing. Thankfully, each duckpin bowling alley and seating area is sparkling clean, and the tableside service makes bowling with kids much more manageable. You’ll get three rolls per turn with duckpins, and the smaller balls are great for little hands.   

Beyond Bowling: The Painted Duck has many fun games besides bowling, and the menu offers excellent food and cocktails far from typical bowling alley fare. The Duck Phat Fries and Duck Nuggets are the perfect options to start. Then, go all in and order the Whole Peking Duck. After dinner, take a walk around and pick one of the vintage games to play, like Horseshoes or Toad Hole. 

Insider Tip: You are limited to two lanes and two hours of bowling. Valet parking ($3 plus gratuity) is available onsite. 

976 Brady Ave.
Atlanta
Onlinethepaintedduckatl.com

4. Round1 Bowling & Amusement

Head over to Cumberland Mall for bowling starting at $5 per person at Round1 Bowling & Amusement. You can bowl your new personal best and watch your crew jump up and down with excitement as they knock down pin after pin. 

Beyond Bowling: This bowling alley offers much more for the whole family. Try out your singing voice with karaoke, put on some VR goggles or watch your little ones climb to the ceiling in the Spo-Cha area, an indoor sports complex. There’s an arcade game around every corner and family-friendly food for your crew. 

Insider Tip: Check their website before you arrive, as they often run special promotions and giveaways. 

2860 Cumberland Mall Ste 1500
Atlanta
Onlineround1usa.com

5. Stars and Strikes

You’ll want to plan an entire day here with bowling, laser tag, arcade games, a full menu, and more. And if your whole family is looking for a Friday evening activity, Stars and Strikes offers unlimited play for only $18.99 from 5 PM-close and half-price arcade play all day on Monday. Your kids will love it so much that you may end up planning your next birthday soiree here. They have premium bowling with advanced scoring for older kids and bumpers and ramps for younger party goers.

Beyond Bowling: Everyone in your crew will find something to do at Round1 because they offer arcade games, ax throwing, laser tag, escapology and bumper cars. And remember to come hungry. The food is delicious, and the portions are enormous. 

Locations in Cumming, Dacula, Dallas, Stone Mountain & Sandy Springs.
Onlinestarsandstrikes.com

6. Bowlero Atlantic Station

These lanes are some of the coolest and most stunning in the game, featuring black lights, soft lounge seats, and HD video walls that play everything from live sports and music videos to classic family films. And that’s just the bowling alleys at Bowlero Atlantic Station. 

Beyond Bowling: When you want to try something different, head to the bright arcade area for some old and new school games. Load up the prepaid card and get ready to play. The menu offers a little of everything from mile high burgers to overflowing street tacos. 

Insider Tip: It’s best to visit this bowling alley before 3 PM.

261 19th St. N.W., Suite 1150
Atlanta
Online: bowlero.com

 

 

 

A quaint village nestled among rolling hills and vineyards. Miles of bike and hike trails along a gorgeous river. Nope, you’re not in the South of France: you’re in Washington, Missouri, and it just might be the hidden gem vacation your family is longing for. Read on to find out why we love this little spot in the heart of Missouri for an unexpected, sophisticated family vacation that won’t break the bank.

1. Katy Trail

The Katy Trail is a hike and bike trail created from 240-miles of the former path of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. It's known for being the country's longest rail-trail and includes 26 hiking trailheads and four fully restored railroad depots along the way. Bonus tip: Make your way to the section of trail located between Cooper County and St. Charles County, which has been designated as an official segment of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail!

2. Historic Downtown

Washington is home to a lively Historic District with seasonal street festivals, including BBQ and Bluesfest, Art Fair and Winefest and Fall Festival of the Arts and Crafts. For an exciting excursion, play a game of Where's Waldo throughout the neighborhood. Simply obtain a "passport" at participating stores then discover hidden gems along the way in your scavenger hunt adventure. Make a stop at the Iron Spike Model Train Museum and the Washington Firehouse Museumtwo favorites for kids. 

3. Locally Owned Eats & Treats

From pizza and froyo to more sophisticated eateries, you’ll find an array of family-friendly, owner-operated establishments to suit any craving. Want to treat your little ones to a super-sized milkshake? Head to Main Street Creamery for intricate concoctions that are topped with donuts, cookies, cupcakes, brownies and even cotton candy.

4. Local Wineries

Did you know that Central-Eastern Missouri is home to more than forty wineries, all within an hour’s drive of Washington? Move over, Napa! These wineries are never as crowded and feature world-class wines and cuisine. All that's left to do is map out your vino trail!

5. Right on the Amtrak

Washington is conveniently located along the Amtrak Missouri River Runner line, a 283-mile route that runs between St. Louis and Kansas City and makes stops in Kirkwood, Jefferson City and more. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can bring your bikes on the train for a car-free adventure your family will never forget. 

6. Unique Family-Friendly Lodging

Sure, you may have explored Washington and absorbed its rich history while on foot, but what about spending a night (or two) in one of its historic homes? There are many historical residences and charming B&Bs you can stay in right downtown. Many of them let you rent out an entire floor or the full home so your family has plenty of space to sprawl. 

7. Parks and Trails for Outdoor Fun

Washington has plenty of parks to explore on bike, including the Riverfront Park, which features an asphalt trail ideal for young riders (and rollerbladers!). You can also explore Lion’s Lake, where you’ll find an All-Abilities Playground and a lovely walking trail around the lake. Our favorite is Busch Creek Disc Golf Course at Burger Park, which features an 18-hole disc golf course that the whole family can try.


If you want a place to visit that is off the beaten path with plenty of fresh air and history, visit Washington, Missouri and book your vacation today!

—Amber Guetebier

If you’re like us, taking care of your home is a daily struggle… so taking care of the environment, too, may sound like a huge feat—but it doesn’t have to be. We can do so many little things every day, like toting reusable shopping bags instead of answering “Paper” or “Plastic.” And it’s never too early: Young kids can easily learn what gets reused—helping with recycling items around your home is a great way to get them involved. 

Taking care of who is in our environment is just as important. We’ve found a joyful way to help kids grasp these values through an incredibly thoughtful and beautifully illustrated read, The Digger and the Duckling by Joseph Kuefler, a follow-up to his acclaimed picture book, The Digger and the Flower. When a tiny duckling waddles onto their construction site, Digger and his mighty crew are all annoyed, calling her a nuisance. The duckling isn’t bothered, though, and through understanding, patience and acceptance, Digger and his crew help take care of her and grow to love the duckling. They become an unlikely family and make their lives richer, all through having patience (something any young kid could use more of).

That’s just one of the reasons we love the new book, The Digger and the Duckling.

Get your copy of The Digger and the Duckling.

The Story

Digger and the other big trucks love to build. But when a lost duckling waddles onto the jobsite, Digger and his friends learn to do more than just scoop and hoist and push... They learn to become a family. Especially for ages 4-8, this beautifully illustrated book is an excellent introduction to taking care of the environment and one another.

Start reading The Digger and the Duckling today!

This book is hot off the presses, so no reviews just yet—but here’s praise for the first of the series, The Digger and the Flower:

 “Kuefler imbues the text with the heart and soul of the best storytime fare… One couldn’t hope for a better tale of rebirth and regeneration”

Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Kuefler’s simply written and beautifully illustrated tale has a powerful message about the importance of the environment…A wonderful, inspiring tale, perfect for read-alouds.”

—School Library Journal (starred review)

“The image of the clunky piece of construction equipment tenderly caring for the fragile plant gives the story charm, and so do its strong, simple images.”

Publishers Weekly

 

Looking for a fun activity as a follow-up to the story? Care for a plant together! From tiny succulents to flowy ferns, your little one can help make sure it gets the light and water it needs—maybe they can even read The Digger and the Duckling to their new plant friend!

 

Happy reading! (And don’t forget to shut the water off while you brush your teeth… )

 

—Jamie

 

Buddy cop movies are always a blast! What’s not to love? Adventure, drama, laughs—an unlikely team ends up coming out on top and leaves us wanting more. We are loving this young-reader version of that archetype—and we all know the book is always better than the movie! Horace & Bunwinkle is a mystery-adventure series about Horace, an anxious Boston Terrier, and Bunwinkle, an exuberant potbellied pig, who team up to solve crimes in their barnyard and local neighborhood. If you have a reader ages 6-10, this exciting book could be the one to get them psyched about reading and a whole lot more confident, too.

Will Horace & Bunwinkle solve the case? You’ll have to start reading to find out!

The Case of the Rascally Racoon

Horace is flying high after solving the pet-tectives' first mystery. But Bunwinkle just hasn’t been herself—she’s scared all the time and is too embarrassed to tell anyone.

Before they can work on getting Bunwinkle’s confidence back, a new case lands in their laps—well, actually their trash cans—when Shoo the raccoon asks for help. The neighborhood humans think he’s behind a series of garbage upheavals and home break-ins—but he swears he’s innocent. Just because people call him a trash bandit doesn’t mean he is one.

To make matters worse, while the pet-tectives are trying to clear Shoo’s name, they learn that Eleanor is having money problems. She hopes to solve them by starting a community Farmer’s Market in the back field. The neighbors seem excited to help at first but then, one by one, they suddenly drop out. 

With time running out, can the pet-tectives solve the mysteries and save Shoo and the Homestead?

Read a sample chapter of Horace & Bunwinkle: The Case of the Rascally Racoon and add it to your collection today!

 

High Praise for This Dynamic Duo

“Gardner’s debut tale of mystery and (eventual) bucolic bliss brings to mind Joan Carris and Noah Z. Jones’ Bed & Biscuit series. Graduates of the Mercy Watson books will also feel right at home. Mottram’s occasional illustrations just add to the charm….This kicks off a series, and readers will be glad to know that this piggie and pooch will pair up again.”

   — Kirkus Reviews

"I know a thing or two about animals who investigate mysteries, and Horace and Bunwinkle have what it takes, doing so with pluck and charm. Kids will be delighted by the curiosity and caring natures of these adorable, adoptive, crime-solving siblings!"

   — John Patrick Green, New York Times-bestselling writer and artist of InvestiGators

“Horace and Bunwinkle are a delightful pair. Sweet and funny, their antics will keep young readers eagerly turning the page.”

   — Suzanne Selfors, bestselling author of Wedgie & Gizmo and The Imaginary Veterinary Series

You can grab a copy of the first Horace & Bunwinkle book here to see what all the buzz is about!

Horace & Bunwinkle: The Case of the Rascally Racoon is on sale now—get yours today!

 

—Jamie Aderski

 

 

It’s almost time for the most wonderful time of the year, if you’re a Hallmark movie lover. Unlikely new romances between small-town woodsmen and high-powered executives are almost here, courtesy of Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas and Miracles of Christmas programming!

Starting October 22, you can watch all-new movies every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8 p.m. But if that’s not enough entertainment, you can also watch a new movie every Saturday at 10 p.m. on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries. And you’ll be treated to the starpower of Candace Cameron Bure, Lacey Chabert, Alison Sweeney and more throughout a slate of 41 original premieres.

It would be impossible to list every movie appearing, but here are a few must-watch options:

  • October 22
    You, Me & The Christmas Trees starring Danica McKellar, Benjamin Ayres and Jason Hervey. Olivia is Connecticut’s resident expert on evergreens who, just days before the holiday, agrees to help Jack, a fourth-generation Christmas tree farmer in Avon. A mysterious illness has befallen their firs, causing them to die out and threatening his family’s 100-year business. As Olivia tries to get to the root of the problem and extends her stay in town, she and Jack spend more time together and feelings begin to develop.
  • October 23
    Boyfriends of Christmas Past starring Catherine Haena Kim, Raymond Ablack and Paul Sun-Hyung Lee. Leading up to Christmas, marketing executive, Lauren, is visited by the ghosts of four ex boyfriends. She must learn to open her heart or risk losing her best friend, Nate.
  • October 29
    Christmas in Harmony starring Ashleigh Murray, Luke James, Loretta Devine, Michelle Williams and Basil Wallace. Harmony is tricked into auditioning for the Holiday Chorus —directed by an ex-boyfriend. By Christmas Eve, they could be harmonizing in the key of love.
  • November 7
    A Christmas Treasure starring Jordin Sparks and Michael Xavier. After opening a 100-year-old time capsule and meeting a charming chef, Lou questions whether or not she should move to New York after Christmas and further her writing career.

If keeping track of all of these instant holiday classics sounds overwhelming, you can download Hallmark’s Movie Checklist App to track when each movie premieres. Grab your Hallmark wine, dim the lights and get ready for hours of improbable, festive love connections!

—Sarah Shebek

Feature image courtesy of the Hallmark Channel

 

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All you landlubbers, get ready for an aquatic adventure! Spend your days fishing, kayaking and enjoying the sunset on these houseboats you can rent with your family. They have all the kid-friendly amenities you love and a cool factor that will make this family vacation one they won’t soon forget. All aboard!

West

Floating Vacation Home | Oregon City, OR

Airbnb

This beautiful property on the Willamette River has three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. It's surrounded by cedar decking and is the perfect spot for fishing and kayaking. Soak in the hot tub and watch the sunset. 

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $321/night
Online: airbnb.com

Float House at Jack Creek | Astoria, OR

Airbnb

You'll love this delightful float house on the John Day River, minutes from charming Astoria. This home offers a perfect place to enjoy river recreation and relaxation. Originally a floating store, guests now enjoy all the modern conveniences mixed with old-world charm. Sitting adjacent to 16 acres of farmland, enjoy the peace and serenity of country life or use it as a jumping-off point for your adventure on the coast.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $207/night
Online: airbnb.com

Charming Sausalito Houseboat | Sausalito, CA

Airbnb

This lovely houseboat has a great deck where you can view Mt. Tam and San Francisco. It is part of the historic Sausalito houseboat community and just a short walk to 7 restaurants. 

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $311/night
Online: airbnb.com

California Yacht | Marina del Rey, CA

Airbnb

You'll love the location of this gorgeous yacht that's just a short walk to Marina del Rey and all it has to offer. 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $280/night
Online: airbnb.com

Southwest

Lake Waco Houseboat (as seen on Fixer Upper) | Waco, TX

Airbnb

You'll love your family getaway on this cute two-story houseboat that was on the TV show Fixer Upper. One room with a queen bed and another with two bunk beds will sleep your whole crew. In the summer you can often hear live music from nearby restaurants. 

Sleeps: 7 
Cost: $268/night
Online: airbnb.com

Midwest

Luxury Houseboat on Mississippi River | East Dubuque, IL

Airbnb

The backwaters of the Mississippi are home to this houseboat that's available year round. It has an amazing roof deck that you can access in the warmer months and view the sunset. The rental includes one-hour kayak rental for all the guests. There's even a water slide! 

Sleeps: 12
Cost: $274/night
Online: airbnb.com

Jamestowner Houseboat | Lakeside Marblehead, OH

Airbnb

This is a true vintage houseboat! Multiple fishing poles are provided to guests along with two kayaks and life vests which are free to use. On the rooftop deck you will have access to lounge chairs and beach chairs.

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $206/night
Online: airbnb.com

Northeast

Casey's Houseboat | Newport, RI

Airbnb

This charming, renovated houseboat is located at the north end of Newport Harbor. Two single kayaks are available for your use. Grill some local seafood and enjoy the sunsets! 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $600/night
Online: airbnb.com

Tiny House on the Water | Washington, DC

Airbnb

What a fun option for your Washington, DC visit! Enjoy scenic views from the deck while your family enjoys time at the dock. 

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $250/night
Online: airbnb.com

Southeast

Luxury Houseboat | Orange Park, FL

Airbnb

Enjoy amazing sunsets at this houseboat that has everything your family will need. Grill up some fresh fish on the BBQ and then explore the beauty of the surrounding area. 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $264/night
Online: airbnb.com

Tugboat on Your Own Private Lake | Louisa, VA

Airbnb

A magical getaway awaits when you stay at this tugboat on its own private lake. The Luxury Tugboat floats on an 8 acre private lake with an island on 142 wooded acres, with 5+miles of hiking trails. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, exploring, or just relax on your own beach by the fire pit. 

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $357/night
Online: airbnb.com

Floating House Getaway | Andersonville, TN

Airbnb

Accessible only by boat, this little floating house is certain to be full of adventure! You'll especially enjoy the expansive deck and outdoor living area. Two kayaks are available for your use and dogs are welcome! 

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $190/night
Online: airbnb.com

A Pirates Life For Me Houseboat | Charleston, SC

Your family will enjoy this very spacious houseboat with a vaulted ceiling in the main cabin. Lots of room to move around with a queen size bed in the Captain's Quarters (Bedroom) and a twin bed in the living room that's a day bed.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $175/night
Online: airbnb.com

—Kate Loweth

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If you see me out in public you might think I’m the mom who has it all together, or the mom that’s a hot mess. There is no in-between.

Outing’s with my son look like watching two people play on a teeter-totter. Sometimes we’re high, other times were low.

My son Kanen will be 3 next month. He loves scripting scenes from Toy Story and lining up his favorite Disney cars. He also has severe autism.

Kanen has always been difficult to please since he was a baby. I always say he’s a “my way or the highway” kinda kid. His determination and perseverance are inspiring. But it also can be very exhausting at times.

Lately going out with him in the community is becoming more difficult. And it’s to no one’s fault. But mainly I think I’m surrounded by a community whose lives are rarely touched by autism.

If you don’t know it, live it, or have been exposed to it, meltdowns or sensory overloads might look like an epic tantrum to some people.

And if we’re being honest, I would’ve thought the same before I had my son. I would’ve been the mom that gazed or starred. I would’ve been the mom that quietly whispered to her partner “I would never let our children act like that.” I would’ve been the mom who did not understand autism.

So I don’t blame them when they do.

But for a while, the stares, and whispers really got to me. A lot of the time, they still do. They sting.

You see the thing about autism there is no one look fits all. It’s a neurological disorder. On the outside, my son looks like a charming little man, but on the inside, he struggles to function with the real world.

In a flash, autism will come storming through like an angry bull running the streets of Spain. There is no stopping it.

Right now Kanen looks like a bratty toddler during outbursts. And well me? I’m just “too patient of a mom” which is what I’ve been told many times before. I always laugh a little whenever I hear that.

I’m a mom who has to wear sneakers over booties, and lightweight clothing over fun accessories because I am constantly chasing him around. I’m a mom who has to give up her Louis Vuitton diaper bag for a crossbody bag because having little to nothing on me is crucial at the moment I need to carry him like a sack of potatoes. I’m a mom who’s learning to say no to outings that might require too many transitions for my son, even if that means missing out on family events.

I am a special needs mom.

If you see me out in public don’t think I’m the mom who has it all together, or the mom that’s a hot mess. I’m simply the mom doing her best.

Samira is a 25 year old single mom to a 2 year old son Kanen Arley. Her son Kanen was diagnosed with severe non-verbal autism in September of 2020, which inspired her to start sharing their journey through My Charming Arley on Facebook and Samirasstella on Instagram.

As we approach your 3rd birthday I can’t help but reflect back on these past years.

It’s just been you and me from the start.

And although some days feel like an eternity, I still catch myself wondering, ‘Where has the time gone?’

God made me the luckiest woman alive when he chose me to be your mom.

Thank you for your tender kisses, and for your ferocious hugs.

For showing me in return all the heart and soul I have poured into you, and for your gentle ‘I love you’s’ to remind me of why I will never stop.

Thank you for making me a better mom every day. 

For teaching me more patience than I ever knew I was capable of, and for still loving me unconditionally in the times I don’t.

Thank you for your strength and perseverance.

For reminding me every day of the miracle of a spoken word, and for giving me every reason to believe in hope for the future.

 

Thank you for being uniquely you.

For allowing me to step into your world, to see all the wonder, magic, and beauty within, and for your forgiveness in the times I can’t always.

 

Thank you for the lives you are touching, and the mindsets you are changing.

For these people will now move forward in their lives with a better understanding of autism, and hopefully will walk through society with more compassion because of you.

 

You and this world of wonder that I call autism have taught me amazing things about life this past year that I don’t think I would’ve experienced if not for you two.

You’ve both have taught me how to turn my grief into gratitude. 

Pain into perseverance.

Sorrows into sacrifices.

 

It’s surreal to say that a little boy so curious and charming like you, and a world I knew nothing about could teach me the most important things about this life.
 

I’d choose you in every lifetime Kanen.

The goofiest little goober, I love you more than you’ll ever understand.
 

Your mom,

Samira

Samira is a 25 year old single mom to a 2 year old son Kanen Arley. Her son Kanen was diagnosed with severe non-verbal autism in September of 2020, which inspired her to start sharing their journey through My Charming Arley on Facebook and Samirasstella on Instagram.